Sex Transm Infect

How effective is doxy-PEP for STI prevention?

September 17, 2024

Prophylactic use of doxycycline (Doxy-PEP) reduced the incidence of chlamydia and syphilis among some high-risk groups. However, the strategy didn't significantly impact gonorrhea infection rates.

• This meta-analysis reviewed randomized trials through May 2024 to evaluate the efficacy of Doxy-PEP in preventing bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among high-risk individuals.
• Four studies conducted between 2015-2022 were included (N = 1,727 participants). The majority of the participants (73%) were men who have sex with men, with ages ranging from 24 to 43 years.
• Doxy-PEP was found to reduce the risk of any bacterial STI by 46% (hazard ratio, 0.54), with specific reductions of 65% for chlamydia and 77% for syphilis. However, it didn't significantly affect the risk of gonorrhea infection.
• Approximately 80% of participants reported adhering to the Doxy-PEP regimen, and there was one drug-related serious adverse event reported.
• The review did not provide information on the induction of bacterial resistance or long-term adverse events.

Source:

Sokoll PR, et al. (2024, August 3). Sex Transm Infect. Efficacy of postexposure prophylaxis with doxycycline (Doxy-PEP) in reducing sexually transmitted infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39097410/